HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 2026-4688
HR 4688
By Representatives Abell and Engell
WHEREAS, Rod Hergesheimer served as a public school teacher for thirty years, including twenty-nine years at Inchelium High School on the Colville Indian Reservation in rural Ferry County, demonstrating a deep and enduring commitment to the education of rural Washingtonians; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Hergesheimer is steadfastly supported in his teaching efforts by his extraordinary wife, Pam Hergesheimer, who worked two jobs while Mr. Hergesheimer continued his education, and who retired after a storied career at the Chewelah School District in Chewelah, Washington; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Hergesheimer is further steadfastly supported by his beloved family members, including his parents, Gale and B.J. Hergesheimer, his parents-in-law, Bud and Donna Sampson, and his daughters, Alicia Grady and Jonna Savitz and their families; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Hergesheimer was raised on a dairy farm in rural Stevens County started by his great-grandparents, and enjoyed a childhood characterized by hunting, fishing, camping, and community celebrations; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Hergesheimer studied and graduated from Spokane Community College and Eastern Washington University; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Hergesheimer began teaching at Inchelium High School, proud home of the Hornets, 29 years ago; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Hergesheimer is known as a consistent, fair, and demanding teacher who sets high expectations for his students and earns the lasting respect of both students and parents, many of whom were themselves former students; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Hergesheimer developed and implemented social studies assessments utilizing the John McCoy (lulilaš) Since Time Immemorial: Tribal Sovereignty in Washington State curriculum, strengthening culturally responsive instruction and student understanding of tribal sovereignty and state history; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Hergesheimer developed and taught a law elective course, providing students with opportunities to explore civic responsibility, legal principles, and critical thinking skills; and